Table of Contents
Definition
Crema (noun):
- In the context of espresso, crema refers to the light, creamy, caramel-colored foam that forms on top of freshly brewed espresso. This layer is composed of coffee oils, sugars, and proteins extracted during the brewing process and is considered a sign of well-extracted espresso.
- Crema can also refer to creams used in various culinary contexts, such as “crema Mexicana”, which is a type of dairy product similar to sour cream but slightly thinner and with a milder flavor.
Example Sentences
- “The rich, golden crema on top of the espresso indicated a perfect extraction by the barista.”
- “When evaluating the quality of an espresso, one should look at the thickness and consistency of the crema.”
- “He enjoyed watching the crema slowly mix into the rest of the espresso as he stirred in a spoonful of sugar.”
Notes
- The ideal crema should have a color that resembles golden honey and a texture that is thick enough to briefly support a small amount of sugar before sinking through.
- While a good crema is often associated with quality espresso, it’s not the sole indicator.
- Although crema looks appealing, its taste is somewhat bitter compared to the underlying flavor profile of the espresso.